Miller for the Day

It could not have been a better day for Steve Holden, of Rocester in Staffs, who was Miller for the Day recently. On a warm day the sun shone brightly and there was a steady 20 mph wind, which made flour milling operations imperative for the qualified millers Brian Naylor and Alan Eccleston. They acted as Steve’s mentors through the day, teaching him, amongst many things, how to open up the mill, stop and start the sails and how to control their speed.

Above all he was able to assist in the actual milling of grain, and during the day they milled over 175 Kg of flour! As Steve said: ‘I had a great time. Many thanks to everyone for making me so welcome. It was one of the best things I’ve done in ages and would love to come back and spend another day milling.’

He was presented with a certificate to mark his day and left the mill quite delighted. We, of course, would be happy to welcome him back!

Please note the wind speed. If it is more than 5 or 6 mph, then normally the sails will be turning.

Heage Windmill is owned by Derbyshire CC but is controlled and operated by Heage Windmill Society, a charitable organisation (Reg Charity No 1065980), to whom all profits from running the windmill are donated by the Friends to help ensure its continued preservation